Hubert ROBERT ( Paris 1733 - 1808 ) - Lot 28

Hubert ROBERT ( Paris 1733 - 1808 ) Rider and washerwoman near a fountain Oval canvas 24.5 x 30 cm. Signed at right on top of the fountain Provenance : - English collection in the early 20th century; - Chez Cailleux in the mid-twentieth century; - Sale Lille, November 25-26, 1995, Mercier et Cie, lot 357. The French Revolution marked a turning point in Hubert Robert's work. His vision of ancient Rome, full of His vision of ancient Rome, full of lightness and fantasy, no longer corresponded to the aesthetics of an era that advocated archaeological accuracy. Most of his patrons did not survive the Revolution, or had not yet returned from emigration. from emigration. His style itself changed, the drawing became firmer, the brushwork more uniform. And yet, in this charming, nostalgic painting, Hubert Robert remains faithful to the imaginary world of his youth, and to the grace of the 15th century. of his youth and the grace of the 17th century.